Dallas Cowboys' July 28 practice update: Rookie LT Tyler Guyton exits with an injury, raising concerns for Dak Prescott's protection in the 2024 season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
It was a day of jarring contrasts in Oxnard. One moment, the 153-pound KaVontae Turpin was shockingly knocking over a 322-pound offensive lineman. The next, the entire practice held its breath as rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton, the team's first-round pick and presumed starter, walked off the field early with an undisclosed injury. The Cowboys' sixth practice of training camp was a rollercoaster of incredible highlights and one major, season-altering concern.
The most significant development was left tackle Tyler Guyton leaving practice early due to injury, raising concerns about the offensive line depth.
The biggest story of the day, without a doubt, was the early exit of rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton. Tasked with protecting Dak Prescott's blindside, Guyton's health is critical. He left Monday's practice with an injury, and as of the afternoon, the team had not provided details on its severity. Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer acknowledged the setback in his press conference, stressing the importance of depth. For a team that has invested heavily in rebuilding its offensive line, losing a key starter, even temporarily, is a massive blow that could force immediate changes to the depth chart.
Beyond the injury cloud, several players continued to make a strong impression. Cornerback Kaiir Elam is quickly becoming the star of camp, with another impressive day that included breaking up a deep pass from Dak Prescott intended for George Pickens. He's locking down a starting role. In the quarterback room, Joe Milton III once again showed off his cannon arm, connecting with last year's camp hero, Ryan Flournoy, on a beautiful deep ball. These flashes of potential from the younger players are exactly what the coaching staff wants to see as roster battles intensify.
The most viral moment of Monday's practice came from the unlikeliest of sources. During a ground game drill, diminutive return specialist KaVontae Turpin squared up and sent massive offensive lineman Tyler Smith stumbling backward. The hit, captured and shared across social media, showcased Turpin's surprising physicality and the overall competitive fire of this team. It was a moment of levity and intensity, further energized by defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku, who was seen hyping up the squad with a fraternity-inspired dance before drills.
The sixth practice of camp delivered both thrilling highs and a potentially devastating low. While the energy from players like Turpin and the development of Elam and Milton are reasons for optimism, the entire fanbase will be holding its breath until an official update on Tyler Guyton is released. His health is paramount to the Cowboys' success this season, and the next 24 hours will be crucial as the team prepares for its preseason opener against the Rams.